The realistic reactions of the attacker should be present in every single technique regardless of wearing pads or not. As much as it is our responsibility to understand the defense, we should understand the attackers actions and reactions.
The action of the attacker bending forward and moving slightly back, with the chin up, creates the perfect target for the heal palm. (Nerve clusters on either side of the forehead, just don't mess up and try to punch him there).
I think I see where you were going. That the attackers chin would be down and your target obscured for the heal palm. Not likely, the attackers chin remains up, try it for yourself. I've been padded up and kicked. Your hips move back, along with a shuffle of your feet, and your head stay UP.